Written by: Tamara Reichl, Cover photo: Boldizsár Bodzsár 

Boldizsár is among those who were the first to experience what it’s like to receive the Pannónia Scholarship, thanks to which he spent half a year in Lisbon. Thanks to the financial support, he managed his finances very well during this time and gained many beautiful memories. He studied at the Católica Lisbon School of Business & Economics in the Business Administration program, but he also considered it important to make the most of his free time and to meet new people and places. 

For Boldi, it was never a question whether to travel and see what it’s like to study in another country. He had always considered studying abroad a great opportunity, and having only heard positive things about it from others, he couldn’t afford to leave it out of his studies. He is very glad that his path ultimately led to Lisbon, as the city’s beauty and the people’s attitude added greatly to his experience. 

Initially, he was nervous about the trip because he didn’t know how he would adapt to the change. However, after the initial difficulties, he quickly settled in, and the fear disappeared. “In those first few weeks, a very close-knit group of friends formed, and we did almost everything together.” 

Students in similar situations who arrive from other countries for a shorter period through a scholarship program at the same university often find each other quickly. This was no different in Boldi’s case. He quickly found his friends with whom he spent his free time during the semester, and the connection between them has not ended since. The shared parties, sunset watching, or the many trips will all remain lifelong memories for them. 

“Everyone I showed the university to, no matter what part of the world they came from, agreed on how beautiful Corvinus is,” Boldi added with a laugh when we talked about the differences. He was in a fortunate position, as he was able to take courses that genuinely interested him and that he enjoyed studying. He greatly appreciated the instructors‘ professional knowledge and really liked the classes he attended. He also managed to get his Hungarian courses recognized, so he won’t be delayed in obtaining his degree. However, he experienced differences in the Portuguese education system and administration that he found difficult to get used to. 

The local people’s attitude toward foreigners is very positive; they are open and happy to introduce others to their own culture. Many speak English, so there were no language barriers. Boldi put it this way: “Not only the weather, but the people are also very cheerful and positive.” He said they eagerly show off their local foods, and while the seafood dishes weren’t really to his taste, he loved the pastries. The sunsets were also frequently mentioned in connection with the place, many of which were very beautiful during the semester, and watching them together was one of their favorite activities. 

“It was absolutely worth going abroad for a semester, and I’m very glad I applied!” Boldi’s experiences during the semester abroad were entirely positive, so he is very grateful for the Pannónia Scholarship Program and the opportunities it provided him. He collected many beautiful experiences, unforgettable parties, memorable trips, lifelong friendships, and an endless number of photos that he will always look back on with a warm heart. 

Applications for the Pannónia Scholarship Program’s long-term mobility program must be submitted by 1 December. The application process consists of two application stages. First, a preference order must be established, namely marking the institutions, the field of study, and the expected start date and duration of studies in Neptun. In the second stage, an application for the study abroad program and the scholarship supporting it must be submitted, along with the necessary documents. From then on, you just have to wait for the results.